September 15, 2004

The fall foliage is beginning to increase in parts of the Northeast. From northern Maine southwest into the White Mountains in northern New Hampshire low color (11%-30% change) has been reported. The same holds true for parts of west-central New Hampshire, central and northern Vermont, northern and western New York, the Catskill Mountains in New York, sections of north-central Connecticut and parts of west-central New Jersey. Elsewhere in the Northeast there is little to no change.

Many leaves are gradually loosing their green color, giving a washed-out look. This is an indication that the leaves are beginning to stop the production of chlorophyll, the green pigment seen in the leaves. As more and more of the chlorophyll disappears, the other pigments in the leaves will begin to take over, showing off their bright yellows, vibrant oranges and fiery reds.

Leaf drop is not yet a factor at this early stage of the foliage season.

This information provided by Marek D. Rzonca, The Foliage Network.